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Simulation of video-assisted minimal invasive mitral valve surgery - A low cost custom-made device for training programs
Hassina Baraki, MD, Shunsuke Saito, MD, Bernhard Fleischer, Ulrich Molitoris, Ammar Al Ahmad, Axel Haverich, Ingo Kutschka.
Hannover Medical School, Hannover, Germany.
OBJECTIVE: Simulation provides the opportunity to improve technical skills outside the operating room. Our aim was to build a simple, cost-effective and reproducible device for training and education in mitral valve surgery.
METHODS: The device is made of a wooden box with a hole in the front side. The mitral valve is simulated by two plywood panels. The first panel represents the mitral annulus with disposable microfiber membranes simulating the leaflets. The second panel is mounted behind the first one and contains the papillary muscles made from replaceable foam rubber. An USB Camera and a LED light source are integrated to simulate video assisted surgery. All components are placed inside the box for easy storage and transportation.
RESULTS: This low cost (∼ 80 €), portable simulator allows for education and training of mitral valve surgery (e.g. annuloplasty, sliding plasty, leaflet resection, placement of neochordae, valve replacement).
For teaching purposes the simulator can be used with open lid to provide a good view for the mentor, while the trainee is practising the minimal invasive approach through the front access. Closing of the lid and using the USB camera, connected to any available computer, simulates the reality of minimal invasive, video assisted surgery.
CONCLUSIONS: This simulator is represents a new innovative tool for training and teaching of minimal invasive mitral valve surgery. Its manufacturing is simple and cost effective. It may contribute to improve training programs and learning curves.
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